Hitsugaya's match against Harribel then appears to turn when the latter senses her Fraccións' defeat by Captain-Commander Yamamoto. Harribel forces Hitsugaya back with sheer power from her blade swing. She murmurs her Fraccións' names to acknowledge them and unzips her jacket to reveal her rank as the 3rd Espada, signified by the tattoo on her right breast. Hitsugaya is shocked to find out that Harribel is only ranked third despite her strength. Harribel questions Hitsugaya's statement and taunts him that she has yet to fully demonstrate her strength. Noticing this, Hitsugaya quickly uses Bankai in an attempt to match her very sudden and large increase in power. Harribel rushes at him and begins her attack as they come together and lock blades.